One Summer in Europe – the backpacking Europe podcast

Hidden gem #4 – Cinque Terre, Italy

Posted on 04. Oct, 2009 by Ryan in Sights and Sounds

Nestled upon the quiet Ligurian Sea, Cinque Terre is a string of five scenic Italian villages. A visit to Cinque Terre is like stepping back in time, as these old-world villages provide a glimpse into a different way of life than the modern hustle that we are used to. It also makes a peaceful interlude between busy cities like Florence and Rome.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre offers visitors a chance to wander steep and narrow streets past charming brightly-colored houses. To get a feeling of a true fishing village, as the small boats come and go early in the morning. To sample authentic Italian culinary delights, whether a fresh seafood dish, pasta with pesto sauce (pesto originated here), or after-dinner gelato. To hike from town to town and feel the gentle sea breeze in your hair.

The best approach into Cinque Terre is from the larger town of La Spezia, about 15-20 minutes by train from the south. La Spezia is not far from Pisa and only a couple hours from Florence.

The towns from south to north are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazzo, and Monterosso. The trains connecting each time come every 10-15 minutes and the next town is only a couple minutes away. One could see most of Cinque Terre in a busy day starting or ending in Florence or possibly Rome. Adding Cinque Terre to your backpacking Europe itinerary for even a day is highly recommended.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Tags: Backpacking Europe, Backpacking Europe Itinerary, Budget Travel Europe, Cinque Terre, Europe on a Budget, Florence, Italy, Summer in Europe